​Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo, together with Undersecretary Florita Villar, Assistant Secretary Aleli Bawagan and Assistant Secretary Jose Antonio Hernandez conferred the Gawad Kalihim Awards to 16 Contract of Service workers from the different offices, bureaus, services and units (OBSUS) of DSWD Central Office during the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE) held on February 24, at the Land Bank Auditorium in Ermita, Manila.​

Department of Social Welfare and Development Secretary Judy M. Taguiwalo, together with Undersecretary Florita Villar, Assistant Secretary Aleli Bawagan and Assistant Secretary Jose Antonio Hernandez conferred the Gawad Kalihim Awards to 16 Contract of Service workers from the different offices, bureaus, services and units (OBSUS) of DSWD Central Office during the Program on Awards and Incentives for Service Excellence (PRAISE)  held  on February 24, at the Land Bank Auditorium in Ermita, Manila.​

The Gawad Kalihim Awards was given by the Office of the Secretary to Contract of Service (COS) workers who unselfishly served the Department for 15 years and more despite the fact that their tenure is not considered government service. It was the first time during DSWD’s annual Anniversary celebration that such recognition was given to long-time Contract of Service workers.

COS workers do not enjoy the same benefits as regular or permanent employees, but their valuable contributions help the Department attain its strategic goals. Hence, they consider the Gawad Kalihim Awards as an affirmation of their dedicated service to the Department.

The event capped the month-long 66th Anniversary celebration of the Department with the theme, DSWD@66: May Malasakit.

Around 74 COS workers, 16 from the different offices of the DSWD Central Office and 58 employees from Field Offices I, II, IV-A, V, VI, VII, IX, X, XI, XII, Caraga and NCR received this award.

Enrique Ballen, Tailoring Instructor of Field Office I, who served the Department for 27 years under Contract of Service gave the response on behalf of the Gawad Kalihim awardees.

 “Isang malaking karangalan ang makatanggap ng parangal na ito na nagpapatunay na pinahahalagahan ng Departamento ang kontribusyon ng mga COS workers sa pagbibigay ng maagap at mapakalingang serbisyo sa ating mga nangangailangang kababayan (It is a big honor to receive this award proving that the Department gives importance to the contribution of COS workers in rendering prompt and compassionate service to our countrymen in need.) ###

Save